NOMINATIONS for the pending Thurrock Council Ockendon ward by-election have officially closed and the names of all candidates standing on Thursday, 1 May have been released.

Polling cards have been delivered to all those registered and eligible to vote in the Ockendon ward by-election.

The polling cards provide information on voting details, polling station locations, voter ID requirements and how to apply for a postal or proxy vote. Voters are encouraged to check their card carefully. Polling hours on Thursday 1 May are from 7am until 10pm.

Voters are required to bring and show photo ID at the polling station, such as a passport or driving licence – for full details go to GOV.UK: Photo ID you'll need. Voters without a valid form of voter ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate at GOV.UK: Apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by 5pm on Wednesday, 23 April.

Anyone living in the Ockendon Ward who is not yet registered to vote can register online before midnight on Friday, 11 April, at GOV.UK: Register to vote.

Any voters wishing to vote by post who do not already have a postal vote need to apply for one online at GOV.UK: Apply for a postal vote before 5pm on Monday, 14 April. You must be registered to vote to be able to apply for a postal vote.